A guide to Mombasa’s Beaches and where to stay

Mombasa is the largest city on the Kenyan coast and combines city excitement with beach relaxation. The coastal area features nearly 500 kilometres of tranquil white beaches, golden sand dunes, warm aqua water and idyllic secluded islands. The beaches are one of the main attractions and the coral reefs offer some of the best diving in Kenya. Here’s our guide to the main beaches at the beautiful coast.

Diani Beach

One of Kenya’s best beaches – think white, soft, powdery sand with a backdrop of aqua hues from the glistening turquoise water, surrounded by green and lush vegetation. Diani is a stunning destination for a beach escape!

We recommend staying at:

Elewana Afrochic

Swahili Beach Resort

The Sands at Nomad

Baobab Beach Resort and Spa

Watamu and Turtle Bay

Watamu beach has an enormous coral reef, perfect for those that love to snorkel or scuba dive. If you’re lucky you may see sea turtles nesting on a stretch of the beach close to the reef.

We recommend staying at:

Hemingways Watamu

Turtle Bay

Malindi

Malindi beach, known as ‘Little Italy’ due to the large population of Italian tourists, is adjacent to Watamu beach. Popular during the deep-sea fishing season and for water sports enthusiasts, it is a perfect all-year destination to snorkel, waterski and scuba dive.

We recommend staying at:

Diamonds Dream Of Africa

Malindi Dream Garden

Lamu

Lamu is known as the land of dhows. Dhow sailing is a cultural tradition on Lamu Island and the locals even hold an annual competition!

We recommend setting sail to watch the sunset in the deep sea, or cruise all the way to the marine park to snorkel and swim with dolphins if your timing is right, or you can go on an excursion to view the ruins of Takwa.

We recommend staying at:

The Majlis

Kizingo

Manda Bay

The North Coast – Nyali Beach and Bamburi Beach

Nyali Beach and Bamburi Beach are a short distance from Mombasa Town, and have plenty of accommodation from which to choose. The beaches are close to Mombasa Marine Park, where you can go snorkelling. You can also opt to view the marine life through a glass-bottomed boat.

We recommend staying at:

Sarova Whitesands Beach Resort and Spa

Sun Africa Beach Resort

Voyager Beach Resort

Serena Beach Resort and Spa

Inspired to visit Mombasa?

Call us on 020 8423 3000 or complete an enquiry form to receive a quotation from our booking experts.

You can also find out more on our website: https://www.somak.com